Jan 11 How To Use 2018 Design Trends in Your Business

2018 is coming in hot!

Well fast that is and that typically means out with the old and in with the new. The same is true for design trends. Something you might not think is completely relevant to you as a business owner or entrepreneur. However, it’s just as important for you to have your ear to the ground on what’s new for these trends as it is for your marketing. Perfect to keep top of mind as you build out your new program, marketing materials, sales pages, even rebrand.

So, here a few things you’ll see in the design & marketing arena this new year, and I’ll translate how YOU (as a business owner or entrepreneur) can utilize it to your advantage.

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How To Use 2018 Design Trends in Your Business_________________________________________

1. Multiple (responsive) versions of your logo:

the new year + design trend (that I’ve been preaching about this for years and something you’ve seen bigger brands accomplish already) calls for icon based versions of your logo. You never know where it’ll be seen, applied, or praised, so be ready!

Example:

TRANSLATION TO YOUR BUSINESS:

If you’ve DIYed your logo and are lost in the sauce at this trend ( or necessity rather, if you ask me), there’s no time like the present to find designer or head over to 99designs to build out a icon version (or “submark) of your logo.

2. Color Transitions, or “gradients”.

Definitely something that has been popping up in pervious years, but prepare to see more this new year. These color transitions are a great way to use your brand colors, keep things fresh yet simple, and maintain your brand tone.

Example:Instagram - everybody flipped when they saw the rebrand of Instagram go all Lisa Frank, a couple years ago. But to be honest: they were trailblazing a trend that is relevant today.

TRANSLATION TO YOUR BUSINESS:

Use color transitions for something larger or to make a bold statement with fewer elements: social media page banner graphic, sales pages, or graphics that pertain to your advertisments. Using bold colors and simple typography is always a winner for balance and catching someone’s eye.

3. Retro patterns; and you thought the 80’s were long gone!

The fashion maybe, but the patterns are making a come back. A great way to spice up your greeting cards, landing page, or even something that has multiple layers, like a digital product or opt-in.

Example:You’ll see this trend handled beautifully over at mailchimp. With multiple touchpoint of their platform login, actual company website, etc, they’ve embraced this trend. Plus reminded us that everything doesn’t have to be all image or all graphics: the perfect marriage of both.

TRANSLATION TO YOUR BUSINESS:

This could go bad quick when trying to apply random graphics or patterns. So, when in doubt, refer back to your brand. For example: the Blue Loui Studio (link) brand has visual elements donuts - so when trying to think of a funky pattern to use for a graphic, banner, or sales page….this would be a great element to take advantage of.

4. Movement: because flat is so 2017.

You’ll see a lot of brands using GIFs and animation to share their stories & products. Video is on the rise because people are looking for more interaction with things. Start thinking about what you can do with your brand to add movement.

Example: I love seeing this trend incorporated on Instagram, specifically. There are a couple apps that help you accomplish movement without compromising quality of design (so you can ensure your brand maintains its high quality and values).

If video just isn’t your thing, using one of these apps or resources to achieve some movement in your marketing pieces will go much farther then you think.

5. Bold & High Quality Typography.

I knew the calligraphy and script trend would phase out and 2018 is the year, baby! You’ll see more bold use of typography this year. So what does that mean for ladies in the online biz space? TAKE TIME to be intentional with your marketing pieces. It’s important to your brand, but will also make a huge impact on the quality you’re putting behind your website, sales pages, and any other digital marketing piece. And of course, when in doubt: always refer back to your brand elements (i.e. font, color, pattern, shape).

Example: Companies like Kate Spade do this really well: stay on top of type & font trends while still staying true to their brand values and quality.

I hope you found this helpful and you've got your marketing wheels spinning on how you can keep your brand communications fresh for 2018. Don't forget to check out some of these other resources (below) to elevate your business in 2018 too!